Question about DAS with ECV.

[tazdev3225]

I use an ECV in Disney due to knee issues and usually travel solo so I have never worried about needing a DAS.

My husband and I both are going in December. He had 2 strokes four years ago and for the most part is ambulatory, although this may change. He has balance issues so there is some concern he will have issues walking but he will have his cane with him. The bigger issue is that he is now vision impaired also. I'm concerned about his ability to maneuver through queues with steps or that are dark like Haunted Mansion. I'm also concerned about his ability to get on some rides because of the conveyor belt because of the balance issues. Can I get him a DAS based on these issues even if we do rent him an ECV as needed? The last trip we took I had family members to help so it wasn't a real issue. He is reluctant to admit he has a disability but I want us to be able to enjoy the trip. Thanks for any help.

 

[gap2368]

The das will not help with moving walkways or with dark lines. For the moving walkways you will need to talk to a CM at the rides. The two rides that do not stop the moving walk ways are Peter Pan and the people mover. Although they did stop Peter Pan when I was last there. It would not hurt to ask the CM at the rides of it can be stopped

 

[ttintagel]

What I was told by Guest Services, when I went to ask about avoiding standby queues that are dangerous for me because of my visual impairment, was that this was not covered by DAS and that I would have to explain my situation to the CM at each attraction, and ask for the accommodations I need. Unfortunately, there’s no policy that requires them to give those accommodations when asked, and my personal experience has been that they’ve mostly said no. One CM went so far as to say, “If your vision is that bad, why are you even going on the ride in the first place?”

You may have better luck! But it’s good to have a Plan B in mind, just in case.

One technique I’ve used for getting through dark areas when I’m with a family member who uses an ECV is what we jokingly call “the seeing eye scooter.” I keep my hand on the backrest of her seat, and she drives as slowly as possible. That way she’s able to both lead and steady me.

 

[Bete]

Maybe, a small flashlight would help.

Some conveyor rides can be stopped or slowed down. Previous poster is right; each CM seems to not follow the same rules.

How can he manuever through the crowds especially darting children if his vision is impaired driving a scooter? With you being on a scooter as well, this could be dangerous for him and others.

 

[tazdev3225]

The das will not help with moving walkways or with dark lines. For the moving walkways you will need to talk to a CM at the rides. The two rides that do not stop the moving walk ways are Peter Pan and the people mover. Although they did stop Peter Pan when I was last there. It would not hurt to ask the CM at the rides of it can be stopped

I did know about those 2 and we are probably skipping them. Or he will sit while I go on. He does like to do that anyway.

What I was told by Guest Services, when I went to ask about avoiding standby queues that are dangerous for me because of my visual impairment, was that this was not covered by DAS and that I would have to explain my situation to the CM at each attraction, and ask for the accommodations I need. Unfortunately, there’s no policy that requires them to give those accommodations when asked, and my personal experience has been that they’ve mostly said no. One CM went so far as to say, “If your vision is that bad, why are you even going on the ride in the first place?”

You may have better luck! But it’s good to have a Plan B in mind, just in case.

One technique I’ve used for getting through dark areas when I’m with a family member who uses an ECV is what we jokingly call “the seeing eye scooter.” I keep my hand on the backrest of her seat, and she drives as slowly as possible. That way she’s able to both lead and steady me.

I was planning on his holding on to the scooter as you suggested. He is resisting the scooter idea at the moment so that would be a help. Some of my worst experiences have been on the Haunted Mansion. I do know they can stop the belt there but they don't like to on that ride foe some reason.

Maybe, a small flashlight would help.

Some conveyor rides can be stopped or slowed down. Previous poster is right; each CM seems to not follow the same rules.

How can he manuever through the crowds especially darting children if his vision is impaired driving a scooter? With you being on a scooter as well, this could be dangerous for him and others.

He doesn't want the scooter. Believe me I have thought of all the what ifs. He can see just not very well. He watches TV all the time. The vision is mostly in low light because he has no depth perception but he can see shapes and shadows in the dark. I would not let him drive a scooter at all if I were concerned about that. The problem is that with the balance issues and depth perception issues moving walkways can be an issue.

I appreciate the answers. I just wasn't sure if the DAS would cover his type of vision issues and have dealt with Cast Members that make up their own rules for years now. I have had 5 knee surgeries so I need the scooter. My knee does not hold up to all that walking. I think we will go back to sharing the scooter as needed. I will also call when we hit our window of time and hope for the best.

 

[Bjkandma]

Call Disney Disability Services at 407-560-2547. Explain your situation and see what suggestions they have for you.

 

[ttintagel]

Yes; it never hurts to ask.